🇬🇧🇨🇳 trepidation - 惶恐 : English Lesson

Meaning of "trepidation" ("惶恐"), detailed definition, and a short video lesson below.

Trepidation is the feeling of worry, fear, or nervousness you get when you’re about to do something that makes you uneasy, like speaking in front of a crowd, meeting a giant dog for the first time, or opening a mystery box that’s making weird noises.

Watch and listen to this English flashcard to understand the word in more detail, with an easy example sentence.

I entered the bathroom with trepidation after my brother yelled, “Don’t go in there!”

With trepidation, I watched Grandma add extra hot sauce to the chili.

I felt trepidation as I realized my science project was due today… and I forgot it.

With trepidation, I pressed the red button labeled, “DO NOT PRESS.”

With trepidation, I agreed to let my little cousin “style” my hair. Now I look like a confused pineapple.

She felt trepidation as she climbed the narrow stairs to the old pier. Trepidation made her hands tremble; trepidation quickened her breath; trepidation kept her feet stuck. A small boat bobbed; a child's wave eased her. Trepidation loosened, then left with her first steady step onto the deck, and she smiled.

This word is at the C2 level, which means it represents the highest mastery of English. It’s often used in specialized or highly formal contexts and helps you communicate with precision and subtlety, much like a native speaker.

Expanding your English vocabulary is one of the best ways to improve your pronunciation, spelling, and confidence in English. Watch the video above to memorize the word, understand its meaning, and see example sentences in action. Discover related words to grow your vocabulary naturally. Add words to your playlist for stress-free, effective learning—anytime, anywhere! Watch, learn, repeat.